Organic Gardener’s Confession

Contrary to popular belief, organic gardening is not growing plants without pesticides. According to the USDA, organic is a system to “manage site-specific conditions by integrating cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” To achieve this the regulations allow for the use of certain pesticides derived from natural sources. Organic agriculture and land care standards do prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides. However, we need to remember that no matter how they are derived—naturally or synthetically—pesticides exist to destroy organisms.

Absolute organic gardening greatly reduces the need for pesticides. Growing plants appropriate to the ecoregion and site, and supporting the complex biological systems in which the gardens grow reduces the need for managing pests; as pest populations are kept in check by the systems themselves.

Traditional lawns and gardens have inherent pests. Therefore, a need for pesticides exists. If someone chooses to manage a traditional lawn or garden with organic products—an expensive proposition—then the use of pesticides that meet the organic standards, is allowable. For example, if an organic gardener wants to use horticultural oil as an insecticide, they can do that. If they want to use corn gluten meal as an herbicide, they can do that too.

If the thought of pesticides on the landscape is worrisome to you, then you have to change the entire approach to lawn care and gardening—not just the products used. Changing to organic products and using the same old approach is like changing the sheets on a worn out mattress. It might look good on the surface, but it still lacks support.

I am an organic gardener, and I use pesticides; only when warranted and as allowed by the organic standards. However, my saying so is immaterial because organic gardening is not growing plants without pesticides.